Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County is moving forward with plans to build five tiny homes in Ojai, a project intended to expand affordable homeownership opportunities for local residents. The development is planned for 408–410 N. Montgomery Street and is expected to begin construction in summer 2026, according to Habitat Ventura and City of Ojai planning documents.
The project includes two duplex structures and one single‑family tiny home, creating five deed‑restricted units for qualifying low‑income buyers. RRM Design Group is listed as the design partner in city planning materials, and the City of Ojai is overseeing the review process.
Habitat Ventura CEO Darcy Taylor has stated that the project is designed to help residents who work in Ojai but cannot afford to purchase a home in the city’s current housing market. Selected homeowners will complete sweat‑equity hours as part of Habitat’s standard program requirements.
City Review and Tiny‑Home Standards
The project is progressing alongside Ojai’s review of draft ordinance TA 23‑002, which outlines proposed regulations for moveable tiny houses. The draft includes a maximum size of 440 square feet, a maximum height of 14 feet, and minimum setbacks of four feet. City staff have noted that the Montgomery Street project aligns with Ojai’s broader efforts to diversify its housing options.
Planning Commission Review
The Ojai Planning Commission reviewed the project at its March 4, 2026 meeting, according to the published agenda and staff report. Planning documents describe six total parking spaces for the five‑unit layout. Meeting materials also reference traffic‑control considerations at Franklin and Montgomery as part of the review.
Community Participation
Habitat Ventura continues to promote volunteer opportunities tied to its housing programs, including its annual Women Build event scheduled for March 7, 2026. Additional details on homeowner applications for the Ojai project will be released closer to the construction start date.
Sources
Ventura County Star – Coverage of Habitat Ventura’s Ojai tiny‑home project and planning activity.
City of Ojai – Planning Commission agenda, staff report, and ordinance TA 23‑002 documentation.
Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County – Public project descriptions, CEO statements, and Women Build event information.
RRM Design Group – Listed design partner in City of Ojai project materials.